Sources: Google

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing more than 100 people and injuring dozens, according to figures reported by Colombian authorities and the Associated Press. Rescue teams were searching collapsed buildings on Tuesday as officials worked to assess damage in remote areas.

The epicenter was near San Jose del Palmar in the Choco region, about 400 kilometers west of Bogota, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake was felt across western Colombia and in neighboring Ecuador and Panama.

Remote Epicenter Complicates Rescue Efforts

The earthquake caused extensive damage in Cali, Pereira, Quibdo and other communities. About 1,600 buildings were reported damaged, including at least 61 that completely collapsed, according to Colombian authorities cited by AP.

Access to parts of Chocó remains a major challenge. The region has dense jungle and limited transport links. Communication problems have also affected the flow of information from some communities.

Search teams, soldiers, rescue workers and residents have been clearing rubble by hand in affected cities. Families have also reported missing relatives through digital databases. AP reported that more than 2,700 people had been listed as missing by Monday night, although such figures can include duplicate or unverified reports.

 Sources: Prasar Bharati